The Garden of Eden and Other Criminal Delights
by Faye Kellerman
It was just a typical open house for a real estate agent and some prospective buyers. Typical, that is, until a
dead body falls out of the broom closet. Thus begins "Open House", one of seventeen delectable short stories in
Faye Kellerman's latest book, Garden of Eden and Other Criminal Delights. Master of the mystery/crime novel,
Kellerman demonstrates her prowess with the short story as she assembles some of her best shorter creations for
this engaging anthology. Included are "Mummy and Jack", a macabre tale depicting the twisted devotion of a son to
his "Mummy," co-written with Kellerman's own son Jesse (who hopefully bares no resemblance to Jack) and "Luck of
the Draw", a cute family story told in three viewpoints by Kellerman in collaboration with daughters Rachel and
Ilana. Two brand new tales, "Open House", mentioned above, and "Garden of Eden", both featuring her well-loved
detective, Peter Decker, are included among the seventeen as an added bonus.
Garden of Eden is an eclectic mix of stories that include crime/mystery, dysfunctional family dynamics
and psychotic killers. Kellerman introduces each story with a delightful prologue that gives the reader an insight
into each "story" behind the story. The collection ends with two tales drawn from Kellerman's own life: personal
glimpses from her past that break down the wall between author and reader and allow us to get to know Faye
Kellerman, the person behind the pen. A surprising and rather pleasant treat. |
The Reviewer |
Marcia Berneger |
Reviewed 2006 |
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